LeanderΛέανδρος

/lee-AN-der/

GreekBoy

Leander is a Greek boy's name pronounced /lee-AN-der/. Combining the elements for lion and man, it represents a person with the heart of a lion.

Meaning of Leander

Combining the elements for lion and man, it represents a person with the heart of a lion.

Leander is derived from the Greek name Leandros, a compound of the elements 'leon' meaning lion and 'aner' meaning man. In Greek mythology, Leander was the youth from Abydos who famously swam across the Hellespont every night to meet his lover, Hero.

Origin
Greek
Pronunciation
/lee-AN-der/

Cultural background

The name remains a classic choice in Greece and has seen steady use in Germany and Scandinavia. In English-speaking countries, it is often perceived as a sophisticated, vintage alternative to names like Leo or Alexander.

Variations & nicknames

  • Leandros
  • Leandro
  • Léandre
  • Liander
  • Anders
  • Leo

Famous people named Leander

Well-known namesakes — celebrities, historical figures and characters.

  • Leander Paes

    Professional tennis player and multiple Grand Slam winner.

    Sport · 1990s-present

  • Saint Leander of Seville

    Catholic Bishop known for converting the Visigothic kings to Christianity.

    Religion · 6th century

  • Leander Starr Jameson

    British colonial politician and leader of the Jameson Raid.

    Politics · 19th century

  • Leander Perez

    Influential American district attorney and political boss in Louisiana.

    Politics · 20th century

  • Leander McCord

    American politician and former mayor of Rochester, New York.

    Politics · 19th century

Frequently asked about Leander

What does Leander mean?
Leander means 'lion-man,' combining the Greek words for lion (leon) and man (aner).
How do you pronounce Leander?
It is most commonly pronounced lee-AN-der in English.
Is Leander a boy or girl name?
Leander is traditionally a masculine name, though feminine variants like Leandra exist.
What is the mythological story of Leander?
In Greek legend, Leander swam the Hellespont nightly to visit Hero, a priestess of Aphrodite, guided by a lighthouse lamp.

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